Teacher, world traveler, Margaret Blennerhassett reenactor—and now movie STAR!
Hollywood called and Pleasants County co-president Paula Oliverio answered. JC Films out of Bridgeport, WV, came to Pleasants County, WV to produce a movie, called We Believe. It tells the story of Bill Hanlin, who in 1963 led the St. Marys football team to an undefeated season. The film also explores the 20 plus year coaching journey of WVEA member Coach Jodi Mote. A future issue of TODAY will have more on Coach Mote and the film We Believe. “The movie intertwines faith, family, and football and its impact on a small town in West Virginia through the life stories of two coaches. The lessons of not giving up and relying on faith are paramount,” said Oliverio.
She was cast as Dr. Karen Ray, based on local physician and current Pleasants County Board of Education President Dr. Heather Straight. Several of her former students were also in the movie, some of which were Coach Mote’s students with special needs. Oliverio said that the movie had a positive effect on all the students involved and some other local student actors have already been cast in a couple other of JC Films’ projects. “The students seemed to take pride in participating and were extremely excited to see themselves on the big screen during the premiere held locally,” said Oliverio.
This was not Oliverio’s first time acting. She is very active in local community theater. Oliverio has portrayed many historical characters. One of her favorites is playing the role of Margaret Blennerhassett for the Valley Gem & Major Riviera professional acting troupe, the Parkersburg Visitors Bureau, and the State Parks of WV. It is important to Oliverio to educate the public about WV history. “My favorite part of portraying Margaret is stepping back into time and learning much about the history and sharing it with others,” said Oliverio.
In addition, Oliverio was able to combine her love of teaching with her love of travel. And, this year, she was able to claim the title of world traveler by traveling to all 7 continents and nearly 100 countries. She stated one of her favorites was Antarctica for the spectacular views. “I think every teacher should travel out of the country at least once. No matter where they go. There is so much to learn and experience in other countries,” said Oliverio. In addition, some of her travel was with high school students when she worked with the “People-to-People Student Ambassador Program.” For approximately 15 years, Oliverio would travel with students and visit 5–7 countries during 22–25 days of travel and they would participate in community service projects.
Oliverio also did a six-week teaching fellowship in Uganda. “Teaching in Africa was a dream come true. The students all want to learn,” said Oliverio. The families make great sacrifices so their children can attend school. “Even four to five-year-olds walk many miles barefoot to attend each day,” said Oliverio. She said that for the entire six weeks, she did not have electricity and only cold water. There was also no television in the town to know about what was happening in the world and she had limited contact with loved ones back home. “It was a very humbling experience,” said Oliverio.
Paula Oliverio has taught for 38 years and dedicated her life to education. “Teaching is a very rewarding profession in the sense that one person can help change the lives of many, as well as provide a foundation for learning for years to come.” She said she became a teacher to provide educational opportunities and experiences to young children. “It has truly been a life-long opportunity to serve, and I believe I have done that both in and out of the classroom,” said Oliverio.
Help us spotlight a member for being an outstanding educator, supportive colleague, mentor, or community activist. Nominate an educator today!